Chief Executive Officer of Culturati Festival, Adetola Bakinson has said the annual event, in its 18th edition, promotes cultural diversity and the growth of Africa’s creatives.

Scheduled to hold December 5 to 7, at the Freedom Park, Lagos, the festival themed ‘Celebrate Diversity and Unity’ will host three events celebrate culture, boost creatives’ businesses, and that the state’s economy.

“Culturati celebrates traditional art, craft, music, storytelling, entertainment and fashion to ensure these elements are preserved and innovatively passed on to future generation,” said Bakinson.

A Trade Fair platform at the festival held in collaboration with Naijabrandchick provides visibility, networking and access to new customers, including high profile dignitaries and international visitors registered to attend, to nearly 100 small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Participating creatives at the festival will benefit from its youth empowerment programme this year, which traverse trainings in digital marketing, video production and content creation.

“Through our Culturati Academy we have trained over 10,000 youths. This year, we will continue to equip more young people with the skills they need to thrive in the creative and cultural industries.

Finally, there is also the refurbishment of the festival space, the ex-colonial prison yard turned cultural landmark, Freedom Park. The renovation Bakinson said will not only enhance its appeal to tourists, but as the finest cultural tourism destination.

“By promoting the cultural sector and revitalizing Freedom Park, we are not just hosting a festival, we are boosting Lagos tourism and driving a movement for culture, empowerment and growth.”